BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to a seat according to the preamble of claim 1 (see US-A
-5 024 485).
2. DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0002] Most seats in the past did not promote occupant movement. Seats that do not promote
occupant movement cause the seated occupant to sit in a constrained or static posture.
This can lead to a number of health-related problems. For example, constrained occupant
seating postures can cause joint impairments (arthritis), inflamed tendon sheaths
(tendinitis, peritendinitis), chronic joint degeneration (arthroses), and muscle pain
(e.g., when the occupant shifts weight on the seat bones, from side to side, or leans
to one side, the occupant stresses his or her back muscles to remain adequately supported
on the seat).
[0003] Prolonged static seating has also been linked to back problems because of the prolonged
static pressure on the spine. Prolonged static pressure on the spine impairs fluid
flow from the discs, impairing glucose transport, disc nutrition, and the elimination
of waste products.
[0004] Constrained occupant postures also cause poor circulation. Edema of the lower legs
is commonly induced by lack of movement. Leg edema is problematic because local pooling
of the blood increases venous pressures to the heart, blood pressure, and heart rate.
Edema may predispose the occupant to varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and other peripheral
venous disorders such as cold feet. Another circulation problem resulting from seats
that do not promote occupant movement is deep venous thrombosis caused by the formation
of venous clots in the legs. These blood clot formations occur from sitting in a static
position for long periods of time. Other circulation problems occur when certain parts
of the occupant's posterior or legs experience greater pressure than the portion of
the seat, especially the front, digs into the other seated portions of the occupant.
This occurs when a posterior or legs of the occupant, or if the occupant leans more
towards one side of the seat than the other. These concentrated forces on the legs
and posterior inhibit circulation and lead to discomfort.
[0005] Some seats have been designed to promote occupant movement and improve the comfort
of the seated occupant. Some of these seats include a pair of seat platforms that
move independently of each other. Each seat platform rocks in a see-saw manner on
a fulcrum. In one of these seats, the fulcrum also allows vertical movement of the
seat platform as the seat platform slides backwards and forwards. The independent
seat platforms are designed to be self aligning, and allow the posterior of the occupant
to move normally and independently without restraint, improving seat comfort.
[0006] The problem with these seats is that they are not comfortable for multiple seating
applications and environments (e.g., office, home, automobile, etc.). In most seating
environments, these seats do not properly distribute the weight of the body being
borne by the ischial tuberosities ("seat bones") and the residual weight of the posterior
and thigh over the two seating platforms during different seat positions (e.g., one
leg up, both legs up, both legs down, legs crossed, etc.). This causes discomfort
and circulation problems. Also, in most seating environments, the seats did not allow
the exercise necessary for the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the lower back,
pelvis, and thigh areas. This leads to circulation problems, flexibility problems,
and back problems.
SUMMARY
[0007] An object of the present invention is to overcome the above-described difficulties
of static seating.
[0008] An aspect of the present invention involves the recognition that in a seat with a
pair of moving seat assemblies, optimal seating comfort is achieved by providing the
seat assemblies at a predetermined neutral angle appropriate for the particular application
of the seat. The neutral angle is defined as the angle, relative to horizontal, at
which the seat assemblies are initially oriented before external forces are applied
to the seat. It is further recognized that each seat assembly should rock and move
vertically up to a predetermined amount corresponding to the neutral angle.
[0009] Another aspect of the present invention involves four additional recognitions. First,
in greater positive neutral angle seating applications (leaned-back seating), the
amount of rocking and vertical movement should be greater. Second, in smaller positive
neutral angle seating applications, the amount of rocking and vertical movement should
be smaller. Third, in greater negative neutral angle seating applications (leaned-forward
seating), the amount of rocking movement should be greater, but the amount of vertical
movement should be smaller. Finally, in smaller negative neutral angle seating applications,
the amount of rocking and vertical movement should be smaller.
[0010] An additional aspect of the present invention involves a seat with a pair of moving
seat assemblies. A motion mechanism allows vertical motion and rocking motion in each
seat assembly. The seat assembly is provided at a neutral angle based on the application
of the seat. The total amount of rocking motion and vertical motion allowed depends
on the neutral angle of the seat assembly. This combination causes the weight of a
seated occupant borne by the ischial tuberosities and the residual weight of the posterior
and thighs to be distributed optimally over the two seating assemblies, regardless
of the occupant's seated position. The combination also allows the muscles, tendons,
and ligaments of the lower back, pelvic, and thigh areas to be exercised, improving
fluid flow (e.g., blood circulation), alertness, flexibility, and inhibiting back
pain.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] These and other features of the invention will now be described with reference to
the drawings which are intended to illustrate and are not to limit the invention,
and in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of an office chair with an embodiment of the two platform
motion seat of the present invention incorporated therein;
Figure 2 is an exploded view of an embodiment of the seat assemblies of the two platform
motion seat of the present invention;
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the two platform motion seat of Figure 1, taken
along line 3-3 of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the two platform motion seat of Figure 1, taken
along line 4-4 of Figure 1, and shows the motion mechanism (MM) symbolically and the seat assembly;
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view, similar to Figure 4, and shows the vertical movement
capability of the seat assembly;
Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view, similar to Figures 4 and 5, and shows the rocking
capability of the seat assembly through a positive angle (θ1);
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view, similar to Figures 4-6, and shows the rocking
capability of the seat assembly through a negative angle (θ2);
Figure 8 is a symbolic representation of the motion mechanism MM and the seat assemblies, and shows the seat assemblies at different rocking angles
(θ1, θ2) and with different amounts of vertical movement (V1, V2);
Figures 9A-9C are symbolic representations of the motion mechanism MM and the seat assembly, and show the seat assembly at various neutral angles (α);
Figures 10A-10C are symbolic representations of the motion mechanism MM and the seat assembly, and show the seat assembly at various neutral angles and the
foundation F at various angles;
Figures 11 - 19 show alternative embodiments of the motion mechanism of the present
invention; and
Figures 20-21 show a top plan view of alternative embodiments of the seat assemblies
of the two platform motion seat of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] With reference to Figure 1, a two platform motion seat 20 constructed in accordance
with an embodiment of the invention is shown incorporated into an office chair 22.
The chair 22 includes a back 24, arms 26, and legs 28. On opposite sides of the chair
22, an apron 30 connects an upper part of the legs 28. A support or foundation 32
extends laterally across the chair 22 and is supported by the aprons 30. The two platform
motion seat 20 is supported by the lateral support 32.
[0013] Although the two platform motion seat 20 is shown and described in conjunction with
an office chair 22, it will be readily understood by the reader that an office chair
is just one of the many seating applications or environments that the two platform
motion seat of the present invention may be incorporated into. For example, but not
by way of limitation, the two platform motion seat of the present invention may also
be incorporated into the following types of seats: task (e.g., assembly line seating),
auto, light trucks, long-haul trucking, military vehicles, heavy equipment, tractors,
auditorium, theater, stadium, institutional, formal, leisure, dining furniture, motion
(e.g., recliners), rocking, stationary furniture (e.g., dining room chairs), folding
chairs, stacking chairs, airline, bus, train, motorcycles, golf carts, wheelchair,
exercise devices, stools, sit/stand chairs, and handheld, after-market portable seats.
[0014] In addition, the seat that the two platform motion seat 20 is incorporated into may
include, but not by way of limitation, any of the following improvements that are
not shown: headrests, armrests, legrests, manual or power adjustment mechanisms, heating/cooling
-devices, and vibration/massage mechanisms. For example, the two platform motion seat
may include any of the manual user adjustment mechanisms (e.g., seat height control
mechanism, tilt control mechanism, etc.) found on many modem chairs.
[0015] With reference to Figure 2, the two platform motion seat 20 includes a pair of adjacent
seat assemblies 34. Each seat assembly 34 has a seat platform or body 36, which may
be made of metal, plastic, a frame with webbing, or an inflatable device. The seat
body 36 may have a generally rectangular shape and includes a main body 38 and a periphery
40. The main body 38 may have contouring of any shape for additional seating comfort.
The periphery 40 may include a flanged portion 42. The seat body 36 may include a
set of holes 44 in the main body 38 and a set of holes 46 in the periphery 40.
[0016] Although not shown, the seat body 36 may be subdivided into two or more subsections,
laterally or longitudinally. The subsections of the seat assemblies 34 may rock and
move vertically in the manner described more fully below. Subdividing the seat body
36, especially subdividing the seat body 36 into movable subsections, makes the seat
body 36 more responsive to the movements of the seated occupant.
[0017] Each seating assembly 34 may include a cushioning material 48 and/or an outer upholstery
covering 50. The cushioning material 48 and upholstery 50 may be attached onto the
seat body 36 with threaded fasteners (not shown), which fit through the periphery
holes 46, or with any other suitable fastening means such as glue. The cushioning
material 48 and/or upholstery 50 may be contoured for additional seating comfort.
It should be noted, in certain seating applications (e.g., outdoor stadium seating),
the cushioning material 48 and/or upholstery 50 might not be added.
[0018] With reference to Figures 3-7, the seating assemblies 34 preferably move independently
of each other through at least one motion mechanism, which is represented symbolically
as
MM in order for the reader to better understand the motion and orientation provided
in the two platform motion seat of the present invention. Although one motion mechanism
MM is preferably provided for each seating assembly 34, a single motion mechanism
MM may be provided for both seating assemblies, or multiple motion mechanisms
MM may be provided for each seating assembly 34. The motion mechanism
MM provides the seating assembly 34 with vertical motion and rocking motion. A number
of embodiments of the motion mechanism
MM are shown in Figures 11-19 and described below. Although these embodiments of the
motion mechanism
MM include different types of spring arrangements, it will be readily understood by
the reader that other types of motion mechanisms
MM may be used, such as, but not by way of limitation, pneumatic mechanisms (e.g., air
bladder), hydraulic mechanisms, magnetic mechanisms, or motorized mechanisms (in conjunction
with sensor arrangement, control circuit, and/or computer). It should also be noted
that the seating assemblies 34 do not have to move completely independently of each
other; the movement of the seating assemblies may be interrelated.
[0019] With reference to Figures 3-5, the vertical or up-and-down motion of the seat assembly
34 will now be described. When seated, an occupant sits generally upon his or her
ischial tuberosities or seat bones. The weight of the occupant generally creates a
pair of respective resultant forces
R.S., L.S. on the seat assemblies 34. Each motion mechanism
MM allows its seat assembly 34 to travel downwards a respective distance
V (Figure 5) corresponding to the magnitude of the force
R.S., L.S. on it. When the force
R.S., L.S. is removed from the seat assembly 34, the motion mechanism
MM causes the seat assembly 34 to rise vertically to its original position (Figure 4).
[0020] In traditional seats that do not have independent moving seat halves, when the occupant
shifts weight on the seat bones, from side to side, or leans to one side, the occupant
stresses his or her back muscles to remain adequately supported on the seat. Not only
does this cause discomfort in the lower back, but the concentrated load on the side
of the posterior that the occupant is leaning to causes discomfort.
[0021] The motion mechanism
MM provides the seat assemblies 34 with the independent vertical motion the pelvis requires
to accommodate shifting weight on the seat bones, from side to side, and maintain
a balanced weight distribution between the two seat bones. This allows the pelvis
to perform its role as the "fulcrum of the body" while seated, just as it does while
standing, walking, or running. When standing, walking, or running, the pelvis serves
as a balance or pivot point for the upper body, adjusting when the occupant shifts
weight from side to side. In traditional seats, the pelvis is restricted from functioning
as a balance or pivot point. Consequently, the weight of the upper and lower body
is not balanced properly on the seat. The motion mechanism
MM provides enough movement to allow the pelvis to function effectively as a pivot point.
This provides proper weight distribution for the occupant's upper and lower body,
leading to the proper adjustment of the spine, and allowing the occupant to be better
supported on the seat. This inhibits lower back pain because the back muscles are
not stressed to maintain balance and helps reduce the aforementioned concentrated
loads on one side of the posterior.
[0022] The inventors have determined that this vertical distance
V should range from approximately 0.1 in. to 4.0 in., depending on the neutral angle,
which will be described in more detail below, and the particular seating application.
If the amount of vertical movement is less than approximately 0.1 in., the inventors
have determined that the seating assembly 34 would provide insufficient movement to
the pelvic bones to allow for proper adjustment of the spine and maintain a balanced
weight distribution between the two ischial tuberosities. Also, if the amount of up-down
motion is too small the seat will feel too hard, creating too much static pressure
on the ischial tuberosities. If the amount of vertical movement is greater than approximately
4.0 in., the seating assembly 34 can result in unstable postures and/or the creation
of additional stress on the muscles to maintain balance. While approximately 0.1 to
4.0 in.is believed to be the desired range of movement. At least about 0.8 in. is
more preferable for numerous applications because it prevents the seat from feeling
too hard and allows for a more stable posture.
[0023] Figures 6 and 7 illustrate the rocking or see-saw motion of the seat assembly 34.
When an occupant sits on the seat assemblies 34, the occupant's location on the seat
assemblies 34 and his or her seating posture will cause each seat assembly 34 to rock
to a rocking angle θ through the motion mechanism
MM. The rocking angle θ is the angle that the seat assembly rocks through, relative to
the initial, unburdened orientation or neutral angle disposition
NA of the seat. For rocking angle θ calculation purposes, the neutral angle disposition
NA of the seat is considered to be the origin or 0°. Although in Figures 3-7 the neutral
angle disposition
NA is horizontal, it will become better understood below that the neutral angle disposition
NA varies, depending on the particular application of the seat 20.
[0024] The independent rocking motion of the seat assemblies 34 provided by the motion mechanism
MM allows each seat assembly 34 to move in the above-described rocking manner with the
movements of the occupant, optimally distributing the weight of the occupant over
the seat assemblies 34 so as to inhibit discomfort and/or circulation problems. The
rocking movement causes exercising of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the lower
back, pelvic, and thigh areas by causing movement in these areas of the body. This
promotes circulation, feeding nutrients, eliminating waste metabolites, and inhibiting
leg swelling (edema), blood clotting, and other peripheral venous disorders. This
exercise also feeds inter-vertebral discs through passive changes in osmosis. Movement-induced
changes of pressure "feed" inter-vertebral discs nutrients and eliminate waste products
by passive diffusion. This enhances the cushion effect the discs have on the occupant's
vertebrae, reducing back problems caused by sitting. The movement also increases occupant
alertness as afferent nerves send impulses to the central nervous system. Occupant
comfort is also increased because the seat movement constantly redistributes pressures
acting on the spine, joints, and tissue.
[0025] The seat assembly 34 of Figure 6 is shown at a rocked back angle θ
1, (θ>0°). The seat assembly 34 of Figure 7 is shown at a rocked-forward angle θ
2 (θ<0°). When the occupant leaves the seating assemblies 34, each motion mechanism
MM causes its seat assembly 34 to return to its initial, unburdened orientation (Figure
4).
[0026] The inventors have determined that preferably the total rocking angle or amount of
total rock that the seat assembly 34 can be rocked through is approximately 60° (from
an extreme rocked-backward position to an extreme rocked-forward position). If the
amount of total rock is too small, the inventors believe the occupant will not receive
sufficient exercise and range of motion in the pelvic and thigh areas to provide the
benefits of enhanced circulation, flexibility, and alertness. If the amount of total
rock is greater than approximately 60°, the inventors believe the occupant will be
placed in unstable postures and this will produce additional stress on the muscles
to maintain balance.
[0027] With reference to Figure 8, although the vertical motion and rocking motion provided
by the motion mechanism
MM have been described separately, in actuality, these two motions are provided simultaneously
by the motion mechanism
MM. The seating assemblies 34 are shown with different vertical movements
V1, V2, and different rocking angles θ
1, θ
2, respectively. The seat assemblies 34 might take this disposition when an occupant
crosses his or her legs.
[0028] With reference to Figures 9A-9C, the inventors have recognized that to realize the
aforementioned benefits from vertical motion and rocking motion in a two platform
motion seat, which have not been achieved in a moving two platform seat for most seating
applications in the past, each seating assembly 34 must be provided at a neutral angle
α appropriate for the particular seating application or environment that the two platform
motion seat 20 is incorporated into. The inventors have further recognized that the
amount of rocking motion and vertical motion provided by the motion mechanism
MM should depend on this neutral angle α.
[0029] The neutral angle α is the absolute angle between the neutral angle disposition or
line
NA and an imaginary horizontal line
H that resides at 0°. The neutral angle α is the angle that the seating assembly 34
initially is oriented at before any external forces, such as the weight of the occupant,
are applied to the seat 20. The horizontal line
H is orthogonal to earth's gravity force vectors
G (Figure 9A). Consequently, as illustrated in Figures 10A-10C, the orientation of
the support 32 or foundation
F is irrelevant in determining the neutral angle α because the neutral angle α is an
absolute angle relative to the horizontal line
H.
[0030] It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the neutral angle disposition
NA of the seating assemblies 34 may be provided in numerous ways such as, but not by
way of limitation, altering the angle of the foundation or support 32, altering the
connection of the motion mechanism
MM with the foundation or with the bottom of the seat body 36, changing the construction
or configuration of the motion mechanism
MM, etc.
[0031] Figure 9B illustrates the seating assembly 34 with a positive neutral angle α
1 (α >0°). The inventors refer to seating applications with a positive neutral angle
as leaned-back seating applications because the occupant predominantly sits in a leaned-back
manner. Figure 9C illustrates the seat assembly 34 with a negative neutral angle α
2. The inventors refer to seating applications with a negative neutral angle as leaned-forward
seating applications because the occupant predominantly sits in a leaned-forward manner.
[0032] The inventors have determined that, in general, the neutral angle α should vary from
approximately negative 40° to approximately positive 30°. In some seating applications,
the neutral angle α may exceed these parameters. For example, in a sit-stand chair,
the neutral angle α may exceed approximately negative 40° ° (e.g. negative 45 °, 50
°, etc.). In more modem, super reclining office chairs, the neutral angle α may sometimes
exceed approximately positive 30° (e.g. positive 35°, 40°, etc.). In most seating
applications, if the neutral angle α exceeds approximately negative 40°, the occupant
would not be able to derive sufficient benefit from the vertical movement in the seat
because the majority of the occupant's weight would be on his/her legs rather than
on the ischial tuberosities. Similarly, in most seating applications, if the neutral
angle α exceeds approximately positive 30°, the occupant would not be able to derive
sufficient benefit from the movement in the seat because the majority of the occupant's
weight would be on his/her back rather than on the ischial tuberosities.
[0033] The varying of the neutral angle α for the two main types of seating applications,
leaned-back seating (positive neutral angle seating) and leaned-forward seating (negative
neutral angle seating) are described below.
[0034] It should be noted, although two main types of seating are described, in some seating
applications, such as office seating, a seat may be adjustable so as to provide a
positive neutral angle α
1 and a negative neutral angle α
2. This may be done with an adjustment mechanism (not shown) provided along the side
of the seating assemblies 34, below the seating assemblies 34, etc., to vary the neutral
angle α of the seat between a positive neutral angle α
1 and negative neutral angle α
2, including various positions therebetween.
Positive Neutral Angle Seating Applications
[0035] Positive neutral angle or leaned-back seating applications generally consists of
three different types: 1) minimum neutral angle (α = 0 to 4°); 2) moderate neutral
angle (α = 0 to 15°); and 3) maximum neutral angle (α = 0 to 30°).
[0036] The inventors have determined that the greater the neutral angle seating (i.e., moderate
to maximum neutral angles), the greater the rocking movement and vertical movement
should be in the seat assemblies 34 (It should be noted, the inventors have also determined
the rocking movement and vertical movement should be relatively increased as cushion
thickness increases). In this type of seating, the occupant is more reclined in the
seat. This means less of the occupant's seated upper body weight is directed vertically
downward on the spine and ischial tuberosities compared to minimum neutral angle seating
where the occupant is essentially sitting vertically. Because of the smaller amount
of stress on the spine and ischial tuberosities at this orientation, more movement,
both vertical and rocking, is required in the seat assemblies 34 for the occupant
to experience stress relief in the normally-affected areas of the body.
[0037] The inventors have determined that the smaller the neutral angle seating (i.e., minimum
to moderate neutral angles), the smaller the rocking movement and vertical movement
should be in the seat assemblies 34. In this type of seating, the occupant is sitting
essentially upright. Thus, more of the occupant's upper body weight is directed vertically
downward on the spine and ischial tuberosities. This greater stress means that only
relatively small amounts of vertical and rocking movement are required for the occupant
to feel stress relief in the normally-affected areas of the body.
[0038] The following identifies the desired parameters for rocking motion and vertical motion
in the seat assemblies 34 for the different types of leaned-back seating applications:
1) Minimum Neutral Angle:
In minimum neutral angle seating, the neutral angle α is relatively small (α = 0 to
4°). Examples of this type of seating include, but not by way of limitation, office
chair seating and task chair seating. Based on the above neutral angle range, the
amount of total rock should be between approximately 5 and 10 degrees. If the amount
of total rock is greater than approximately 10 degrees, the inventors believe the
seating assemblies 34 will not adequately support the occupant, possibly resulting
in an unstable posture that may produce additional stress on the muscles to maintain
balance. If the amount of total rock is less than approximately 5 degrees, the inventors
believe the occupant will not receive sufficient exercise and range of motion in the
pelvic and thigh areas to provide the benefits of enhanced circulation, flexibility,
and alertness. Based on this neutral angle range, the amount of vertical movement
should be approximately 0.10 - 1.5 in.. If the amount of vertical movement is less
than approximately 0.10 in., the seat may feel too hard, creating too much static
pressure on the ischial tuberosities, and likely provides insufficient movement to
the pelvic bones to allow for proper adjustment of the spine, or to maintain a balanced
weight distribution between the two ischial tuberosities. If the amount of vertical
movement is greater than approximately 1.5 in., the seat may not feel like it is providing
adequate support. This may result in unstable postures and/or the creation of additional
stress on the muscles to maintain balance.
2) Moderate Neutral Angle:
In moderate neutral angle seating, the neutral angle α is small to moderate (α = 0
to 15°). Examples of this type of seating include, but not by way of limitation, motor
vehicle seating such as automobile seating. Based on the above neutral angle range,
the amount of total rock should be between approximately 3 and 20 degrees. If the
amount of total rock is greater than approximately 20 degrees, the inventors believe
the seating assemblies 34 will not adequately support the occupant, possibly resulting
in an unstable posture that may produce additional stress on the muscles to maintain
balance. If the amount of total rock is less than approximately 3 degrees, the inventors
believe the occupant will not receive sufficient exercise and range of motion in the
pelvic and thigh areas to provide the benefits of enhanced circulation, flexibility,
and alertness. Based on this neutral angle range, the amount of vertical movement
should be approximately 0.25 - 2.0 in.. If the amount of vertical movement is less
than approximately 0.25 in., the seat may feel too hard, creating too much static
pressure on the ischial tuberosities, and likely provides insufficient movement to
the pelvic bones to allow for proper adjustment of the spine and to maintain a balanced
weight distribution between the two ischial tuberosities. If the amount of vertical
movement is greater than approximately 2.0 in., the seat will not feel like it is
providing adequate support. This may result in unstable postures and/or the creation
of additional stress on the muscles to maintain balance.
In seating applications such as automobile seating, where the occupant may be sitting
in one position for a long period of time, motion in the seat is especially important
to inhibit the formation of venous clots in the legs (i.e., deep venous thrombosis).
These blood clot formations occur more frequently in people with poor circulation
(e.g., the elderly) who sit in a static position for long periods of time. Deep venous
thrombosis is a serious problem because if the clot breaks off and travels through
the circulatory system it can lead to greater problems such as a pulmonary embolism.
Varying the neutral angle with the particular seating application, and providing the
rocking motion and vertical motion parameters indicated above passively exercises
the normally-affected seating areas of the occupant, improving circulation and reducing
the risk of deep venous thrombosis.
3) Maximum Neutral Angle:
[0039] In maximum neutral angle seating, the neutral angle α ranges from small to large
(α = 0 to 30°). Examples of this type of seating include, but not by way of limitation,
recliner, theater, and airline seating. Based on the above neutral angle range, the
amount of total rock should be between approximately 10 and 60 degrees. If the amount
of total rock is greater than approximately 60 degrees, the inventors believe the
seating assemblies 34 will not adequately support the occupant, possibly resulting
in an unstable posture that may produce additional stress on the muscles to maintain
balance. If the amount of total rock is less than approximately 10 degrees, the inventors
believe the occupant will not receive sufficient exercise and range of motion in the
pelvic and thigh areas to provide the benefits of enhanced circulation, flexibility,
and alertness. Based on this neutral angle range, the amount of vertical movement
should be approximately 0.5 - 4.0 in.. If the amount of vertical movement is less
than approximately 0.5 in., the seat may feel too hard, creating too much static pressure
on the ischial tuberosities, and likely provides insufficient movement for the pelvic
bones to allow for proper adjustment of the spine and to maintain a balanced weight
distribution between the two ischial tuberosities. If the amount of vertical movement
is greater than approximately 4.0 in., the seat will not feel like it is providing
adequate support. This may result in unstable postures and/or the creation of additional
stress on the muscles to maintain balance.
Negative Neutral Angle Seating Applications
[0040] Negative neutral angle or leaned-forward seating applications generally consist of
moderate neutral angle to maximum neutral angle seating (α = 0 to -40°).
[0041] The inventors have determined that the larger the negative neutral angle seating
(i.e., moderate to maximum negative neutral angles), the greater the rocking movement
required, but the smaller the amount of vertical movement required. At moderate to
maximum negative neutral angles, the legs of the occupant relieve more of the stress
on the ischial tuberosities (i.e., receive a larger portion of the gravitation force)
and provide some of the vertical movement required. Thus, less vertical movement is
needed in the seating assemblies 34. Relatively large rocking motions are required
to ensure the weight on the posterior is optimally distributed over the seating assemblies,
and the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the occupant are passively exercised. The
smaller the negative neutral angle seating (minimum to moderate negative neutral angles),
similar to positive neutral angle seating above, the smaller the amount of rocking
motion and vertical motion required.
Moderate to Maximum Negative Neutral Angle:
[0042] In moderate to maximum negative neutral angle seating, the neutral angle α ranges
from small to large (α = 0 to -40°). Examples of this type of seating include, but
not by way of limitation, sit-stand chair seating. Based on the above neutral angle
range, the amount of total rock should be between approximately 10 and 60 degrees.
If the amount of total rock is greater than approximately 60 degrees, the inventors
believe the seating assemblies 34 will not adequately support the occupant, either
barely or not supporting the occupant, or creating an unstable posture that may produce
additional stress on the muscles to maintain balance. If the amount of total rock
is less than approximately 10 degrees, the inventors believe the occupant will not
receive sufficient exercise and range of motion in the pelvic and thigh areas to provide
the benefits of enhanced circulation, flexibility, and alertness. Based on this neutral
angle range, the amount of vertical movement should be approximately 0.1 - 1.5 in..
If the amount of vertical movement is less than approximately 0.1 in., the seat may
feel too hard, creating too much static pressure on the ischial tuberosities, and
likely provides insufficient movement to the pelvic bones to allow for proper adjustment
of the spine and to maintain a balanced weight distribution between the two ischial
tuberosities. If the amount of vertical movement is greater than approximately 1.5
in., the seat will not feel like it is providing adequate support. This may result
in unstable postures and/or the creation of additional stress on the muscles to maintain
balance.
[0043] Providing the seating assemblies 34 at a specific neutral angle α based on the particular
seating application and providing a specific amount of vertical motion and rocking
motion based on the specific neutral angle α produces a dynamic seating surface that
is specifically designed for each individual seating application. The specific neutral
angle α of the seating assemblies properly orients the occupant so that he or she
can take full advantage of the aforementioned benefits provided by the two types of
motion in the seating assemblies 34.
[0044] The vertical motion along with the rocking motion provides the independent motion
the pelvis requires to accommodate shifting weight on the ischial tuberosities, from
buttock to buttock. This allows the pelvis to perform its role as the "fulcrum of
the body" while seated, just as it does while standing, walking, or running. Combined,
these motions serve to distribute the weight of the body being borne by the ischial
tuberosities and the residual weight of the posterior and thighs optimally over the
two seating surfaces, regardless of the position one is sitting in (one leg up, one
leg down, both legs up, both legs down, legs crossed, etc.). These motions also cause
exercising of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the lower back, pelvic, and thigh
areas by causing muscle pumping action in these areas of the body. This promotes circulation,
feeding nutrients, eliminating waste metabolites, and inhibiting leg swelling (edema),
blood clotting, and other peripheral venous disorders. The movement also increases
occupant alertness as afferent nerves send impulses to the central nervous system.
Occupant comfort is also increased because the seat movement constantly redistributes
pressures acting on the spine, joints, and tissue. The rocking motion also eliminates
restricted circulation problems caused by a portion of the seating surface, especially
the front edge, cutting into the posterior or thighs of the occupant.
[0045] With reference to Figures 11-19, numerous embodiments of the motion mechanism of
the present invention will now be described. These motion mechanisms are preferably
made of steel, plastic, or similar material. Where appropriate, like reference numbers
with an "a," "b," "c," etc. suffix have been used to indicate like parts previously
described for ease of understanding.
[0046] With reference to Figure 11, an embodiment of a motion mechanism 76 is disclosed.
The motion mechanism 76 includes a spring 78 with a wave-like shape. The wave-like
spring 78 includes a first crest portion 80 with a flange 82. The flange 82 includes
a threaded fastener 84 for attaching the spring 78 to the seat body 36a of the seat
assembly 34a. The spring 78 includes a first trough portion 85 that rests upon the
lateral support 32a. The first trough portion 85 is attached to the support 32a with
a threaded fastener. The wave-like spring 78 also includes a second crest portion
86, which supports another area of the seat body 36a and a second trough portion 88
that rests upon one of the aforementioned aprons 30a.
[0047] With reference to Figure 12, a motion mechanism 90 constructed in accordance with
an additional embodiment of the invention is shown. The motion mechanism 90 includes
a pair of helical springs 92 that rest upon the lateral support 32b. The springs 92
may be varied by size or type to obtain the desired amount of rocking and vertical
motion.
[0048] With reference to Figure 13, a motion mechanism 94 constructed in accordance with
an additional embodiment of the invention is shown. The motion mechanism 94 includes
first and second springs 96, 98, respectively. The first spring 96 rests upon a rigid
base 110 and supports a rearward portion of the seating assembly 34c. The second spring
98 rests upon the apron 30c and supports a forward portion of the seat assembly 34c.
As mentioned above, the size and types of the springs 96, 98 may be varied to obtain
the desired amount of rocking and vertical motion.
[0049] With reference to Figure 14, a motion mechanism 100 constructed in accordance with
an additional embodiment of the invention is shown. The motion mechanism 100 includes
a main body portion 102 and a pair of leg portions 104. The main body portion 102
includes a flat plate 106 that supports the seat assembly 34d. The flat plate 106
of the motion mechanism 100 is attached to the seat assembly 34d with a threaded fastener
or similar fastening means. The leg portions 104 have a sinusoidal-like shape and
terminate in respective flanges 108. The flanges 108 are connected to a foundation
F with threaded fasteners.
[0050] With reference to Figure 15, a motion mechanism 112 constructed in accordance with
an additional embodiment of the invention is shown. The motion mechanism 112 is the
same as the motion mechanism 100 described above, except its orientation is reversed.
The motion mechanism 112 includes a main body portion 114 and a pair of leg portions
116. The main body portion 114 includes a flat plate 118 that rests upon the support
32e. The flat plate 118 is connected to the support 32e with a threaded fastener or
similar fastening means. The leg portions 116 have a sinusoidal-like shape and terminate
in respective flanges 120. The flanges 120 are connected to the underside of the seat
assembly 34e with threaded fasteners or similar fastening means.
[0051] With reference to Figure 16, a motion mechanism 122 constructed in accordance with
an additional embodiment of the invention is shown. The motion mechanism 122 includes
a main body portion 124 that rests upon the lateral support 32f. The main body portion
124 is attached to the lateral support 32f with threaded fasteners or similar fastening
means. A pair of step-shaped leg portions 126, 128, respectively, extend from opposite
sides of the main body portion 124. The step-shaped leg portions 126, 128 terminate
in flanges 130. The flanges 130 support the seat assembly 34 and are connected thereto
with threaded fasteners or similar fastening means.
[0052] With reference to Figure 17, a motion mechanism 132 constructed in accordance with
an additional embodiment of the invention is shown. The motion mechanism 132 is the
same as the motion mechanism 122 described above, except its orientation is reversed.
The motion mechanism 132 includes a main body portion 134 that supports the seat assembly
32g. A pair of step-shaped leg portions 136 extend from opposite sides of the main
body portion 134 and terminate in a pair of flanges 138. The flanges 138 rest upon
a pair of lateral supports 139.
[0053] With reference to Figure 18, a motion mechanism 140 constructed in accordance with
an additional embodiment of the invention is shown. The motion mechanism 140 includes
an elongated, upward-facing, arch-shaped member 142 or leaf spring that terminates
at opposite ends in flanges 144. The flanges 144 support the seating assembly 34h
and are connected thereto with threaded fasteners or similar fastening means. The
motion mechanism 140 is connected to the lateral support 32h at its midpoint.
[0054] With reference to Figure 19, a motion mechanism 146 constructed in accordance with
an additional embodiment of the invention is shown. The motion mechanism 146 is similar
to the motion mechanism 140 described above, except its orientation is reversed. The
motion mechanism 146 includes an arch-shaped member 148 that terminates at opposite
ends in flanges 150. The flanges 150 rest upon respective lateral supports 152 and
are connected thereto. The arch-shaped member 148 is connected to seat assembly 34i
at its apex.
[0055] The ideal location in the seat 20 for the occupant to sit is called the ischial tuberosities
target area. This is the area of the seating assembly 34 where an occupant's ischial
tuberosities ("seat bones") should be placed to obtain maximum comfort, optimal movement,
and to obtain the greatest weight distribution benefit. This area is positioned approximately
over the motion mechanism and extends longitudinally approximately the distance between
the flanges or contact points between the motion mechanism and the seat assembly 34.
The size of the ischial tuberosities target area depends on the size and construction
of the motion mechanism. The ischial tuberosities target area ideally extends up to
5 in. longitudinally forward and rearward (10 in. total) from the point in the seating
assembly over the center of the motion ° mechanism and can extend transversely as
wide as the seating assembly 34.
[0056] The ischial tuberosities target area was much smaller in rocking seats of the past.
Some of these seats included an arch-shaped assembly that attached to the seat at
its apex. The apex narrowly defined the ischial tuberosities target area because an
occupant had to be seated approximately directly over the apex to take full advantage
of the comfort provided by the motion of the seat. This was sometimes difficult because
every occupant has a different seating position. A number of the motion mechanism
embodiments of the present invention (See Figures 11, 13, 15, 16, 18) expand the ischial
tuberosities target area because they longitudinally extend the target area to approximately
the distance between the flanges or contact points. The larger target area ensures
that the occupant sits in the proper area of the seat to achieve maximum comfort and
other benefits described above.
[0057] With reference to Figures 20 and 21, and initially to Figure 20, a pair of seat assemblies,
indicated generally by the reference numeral 160 and constructed in accordance with
an alternative embodiment of the invention, will now be described. The seat assemblies
device 160 consist of a pair of seat platforms 162 meshed or dove-tailed together
at a mesh area 164. Although meshed together, the seat platforms 162 still rock, move
vertically, and are provided at a neutral angle in the same manner as that described
above. The mesh area 164 has a sinusoidal shape.
[0058] Both meshed seat platforms 162 are covered by a single cushion and/or upholstery
166. Meshing the seat platforms 162 and covering them with a single cushion and/or
upholstery 166 still provides all the benefits described above relating to providing
a neutral angle and two types of motion in the seat assemblies, and eliminates any
demarcation or visible split between the seat assemblies. Eliminating this split makes
the visible upper surface of the seat more aesthetically appealing, prevents crumbs
and other debris from collecting in the crevice formed by this split, and prevents
the occupant from getting his or her fingers, hands, arms, legs, or clothing caught
in this area.
[0059] With reference to Figure 21, an alternative embodiment of a pair of seat assemblies
170 is shown. The seat assemblies 170 consist of a pair of seat platforms 172 that
are meshed or dove-tailed together at a mesh area 174. The mesh area 174 has a toothed
design. The seat platforms also may be covered by a single cushion and/or upholstery
176.
[0060] It should be noted, in another embodiment of the invention, the seat platforms 36
illustrated in Figure 2 may be covered with a single cushion and/or upholstery 166
to provide the advantages mentioned above. This construction may provide more of a
demarcation between the seat platforms 36 than the dove-tailed seats 160, 170, but
still makes the visible upper surface of the seat more aesthetically appealing, prevents
crumbs and other debris from collecting in the crevice formed by a split seat assembly,
and prevents the occupant from getting his or her fingers, hands, arms, legs, or clothing
caught in this area.
[0061] Although this invention has been described in terms of certain preferred embodiments,
other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the
scope of this invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is intended to be
defined only by the claims that follow.